CHARLESTON COUNTY CAR ACCIDENT ATTORNEY

Charleston's Proven Car Accident Legal Strategies

Over the years, we have established a reputation for knowledgeable case navigation and effective negotiation tactics that aim to recover maximum compensation for our clients. Car accident litigation in particular requires the skills of an experienced personal injury lawyer.

We know the right questions to ask, how to approach insurance companies, and how to aggressively litigate in court. Let us fight your battle.

We can help you recover compensation to cover:

• Medical treatment
• Hospital bills
• Rehabilitation costs
• Lost wages due to missing work
• Pain and suffering

Personal injury compensation includes present costs and projected injury costs. If you lost a loved one in a car crash or truck accident, you may also be able to recover funeral costs and lost wages through a wrongful death lawsuit. We can consult top financial and medical experts to help you come up with a complete estimate of your necessary expenses.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Charleston County 

Car accidents can happen for many reasons, and it's important to understand the most common causes. Here are some factors that frequently contribute to accidents in Charleston County:

• Distracted Driving: Whether it’s texting, talking on the phone, or adjusting the radio, distractions behind the wheel are a leading cause of accidents. Drivers not paying attention to the road can easily miss critical signs or react too late.
• Speeding: Driving over the speed limit or too fast for conditions is dangerous. Speeding reduces reaction time and increases the severity of accidents.
• Weather Conditions: Heavy rain, fog, and thunderstorms are common in Charleston County. Poor weather can reduce visibility and make the roads slippery, leading to accidents.
• Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Alcohol and drugs impair a driver’s judgment, reaction time, and coordination. DUI-related accidents are often severe and involve major injuries.

Understanding these causes is essential because they affect how car accidents occur. If you’ve been injured in an accident, it’s important to work with an attorney to ensure you are fairly compensated.

What to Do Immediately After a Car Accident

If you’re involved in a car accident, it’s crucial to act quickly to protect your rights. Here’s what you should do:

• Check for Injuries: Make sure everyone involved is safe. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately.
• Contact the Police: File a police report. This documentation can be important for your case later.
• Gather Evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Get contact information from witnesses.
• Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not show up right away. See a doctor as soon as possible.
• Call an Attorney: An experienced lawyer can guide you through the next steps and protect your interests.

Types of Car Accident Injuries

Car accidents can cause various injuries, some of which may have long-lasting effects. Common injuries include:

• Whiplash: A sudden jolt can strain your neck and back muscles, leading to pain and stiffness.
• Brain Injuries: Head trauma can result in concussions or more serious brain injuries, causing cognitive and physical issues.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spine can result in partial or full paralysis, requiring extensive care.
• Fractures: Broken bones are common in car accidents and may require surgery or long recovery periods.
• Emotional Trauma: Accidents can also cause psychological injuries, such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD.

Understanding Insurance Companies and How They Operate

Insurance companies are focused on minimizing their payouts, which is why they may offer settlements that are far less than what you deserve. Here’s how they operate:

• Lowball Offers: After an accident, insurers may offer you a quick settlement, hoping you’ll accept it without knowing the full extent of your injuries or losses.
• Delay Tactics: Insurance companies may delay your claim to frustrate you and pressure you into settling for less.
• Denials: Sometimes, insurers deny claims altogether, even when you have a legitimate case.

Having an experienced attorney on your side can help you navigate these tactics and ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages. An attorney will work to protect your interests and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accident Cases

• How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Charleston County?
  In South Carolina, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim is generally three years from the date of the accident. However, it’s important to contact an attorney as soon as possible to ensure you meet all necessary deadlines and preserve your case.
• Will I have to go to court for my car accident case?
  Not necessarily. Many car accident cases are settled outside of court through negotiations with the insurance companies. However, if a fair settlement isn’t reached, your case may need to go to trial. Your attorney will guide you through the process and fight for your best interests.
• Can I still file a claim if I was partially at fault for the accident?
  Yes, South Carolina follows a comparative negligence rule. This means that even if you were partially at fault, you may still be entitled to compensation, although your share of responsibility may reduce the amount you receive.
• What if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?
  If you are hit by an uninsured driver, you may still be able to recover damages through your own insurance policy if you have uninsured motorist coverage. If you don't have this coverage, an attorney can help you explore other options.
• How much compensation can I expect to receive? 
  The amount of compensation depends on various factors, including the severity of your injuries, the impact on your life, and the evidence available. Your attorney will help determine a fair amount based on medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other factors related to the accident.
• Do I have to pay for a lawyer upfront?
  At Bluestein Johnson & Burke, LLC, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay us unless we win your case. Our goal is to get you the compensation you deserve, without the stress of upfront costs.
• How soon should I contact an attorney after an accident?
  It’s best to contact a lawyer as soon as possible after the accident. The sooner you have legal representation, the better your chances of securing fair compensation. We can help protect your rights and guide you through the claims process.

Charleston Attorneys Advocating for Your Full Recovery

If you find yourself the victim of a car accident, you are likely in need of rest and recovery. You should not be negotiating with the insurance company or fighting to hold the other driver accountable for his or her actions. Let us do the fighting for you.

Our Charleston County car accident attorneys are relentless in their pursuit of justice and can help you heal and move forward from this difficult experience.